Power generating water jet

ABSTRACT

An electrical power generating water jet for a spa, pool, or the like, having a stationary housing as a stator and at least one water jet as a rotor for generating electrical power when a pressurized fluid imparts movement of the jet relative to the stationary housing so as to generate an electrical charge during rotation of the jet to power an electrical circuit, such as a light source or an acoustic device. The electrical circuit may be carried in a user replaceable module, so as to change a defective light source, or to vary the display pattern or colors of the light source.

STATEMENT OF RELATED APPLICATIONS

This patent application is based on and claims priority on U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 61/051,881 having a filing date of 9May 2008, which is incorporated herein by this reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Technical Field

The present invention relates generally to the field of water jets foruse in artificial bodies of water, such as spas, swimming pools, tubsand the like. With greater particularity, the present invention morespecifically relates to the field of devices using a water jet togenerate electrical power for decorative lighting or other electricalcomponents that may require such electrical power.

2. Prior Art

Water jets can be used in artificial water structures, such as pools,spas and hot tubs (for ease of this disclosure, all artificial waterstructures will be referred to as spas in this disclosure), to providejets of water to provide a massaging and therapeutic action. Themassaging and therapeutic action usually is provided by water jets thattypically are recessed into the walls of the artificial waterstructures. Several water jets usually are spaced about the perimeter ofthe artificial water structure. Water jets typically comprise nozzlesfor forming and adjusting the water flow through the water jets. In somewater jets, the nozzles of the water jet are arrange such that the flowof water through the nozzles induces rotational movement of the waterjet (for example, causing the rotationally mounted nozzles to spin) tovary the direction of the water flow and its therapeutic action duringoperation.

Spas also often have lights associated with them. For safety reasons,spas may have lights to assist in entering and exiting the spa in lowlight situations. Also, for ease of use reasons, spas may have lights toallow the user to see more clearly within the spa. Additionally, foraesthetic reasons, spas may have lights to provide accent lighting,chromotherapy lighting, and/or to illuminate waterfalls and fountainsassociated with the spa.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Briefly described, the present invention is a power generating water jetfor a spa. The invention converts a portion of the kinetic energy fromthe water communicated through the jet to electrical power, which may beutilized in electrical devices such as lights, sound generators, and thelike. In a typical spa water recirculation mechanism, water isrecirculated from the spa tub through distribution lines that mayinclude vortex generators for aerating the water and then reintroducedto the spa tub through the water jets. In the present invention, thewater jet comprises a nozzle having a rotational aspect and the flow ofwater through the nozzle causes a portion of the nozzle, or water jetstructure, to rotate.

The powered jet has a stationary housing that is fixed to the spaenclosure and at least one water jet on at least one rotor operablyattached to the stationary housing such that water communicated throughthe jet imparts movement of the jet relative to the stationary housing.In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the jet is mounted to thestationary housing so that water passing through the jet inducesrelative rotational movement of the jet within the stationary housing.Magnetos and magnets are configured on the stationary housing and themovable jet so as to generate an electrical charge during rotation ofthe rotor. The output of magneto is connected to electrical circuitry topower an electrical device such as a light, sound generator, or asimilar device.

In various illustrative embodiments of the invention, the magnets can belocated on the movable jet and the magnetos located on the stationaryhousing, the magnetos can be located on the stationary housing and themagnets located on the movable jet, or there can be additionalstationary or movable components on which the magnets or magnetos can belocated. Similarly, the light, sound generator, or similar device can belocated on the movable jet, on the stationary housing, and/or on theadditional stationary or movable components, as desired.

These features, and other features and advantages of the presentinvention will become more apparent to those of ordinary skill in theart when the following detailed description of the preferred embodimentsis read in conjunction with the appended figures in which like referencenumerals represent like parts throughout the several views.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front elevational view of a powered water jet according toone embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 is side elevational view of the powered water jet shown in FIG.1.

FIG. 3 is a cross sectional view of the powered water jet shown in FIGS.1 and 2.

FIG. 4 is a depiction of a representative electrical circuit for a jet.

FIG. 5 is a schematic block diagram of the powered water jet shown inFIGS. 1-4.

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram for a first alternative embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram for a second alternative embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram for a third alternative embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 9A is a schematic front view for a fourth alternate embodiment ofthe invention with dual coaxial rotors.

FIG. 9B is a schematic side cross-sectional view of the fourthembodiment shown in FIG. 9A.

FIG. 10A is a schematic front view for a fifth alternate embodiment ofthe invention with dual rotating wheel rotors.

FIG. 10B is a schematic side cross-sectional view of the fifthembodiment shown in FIG. 10A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

FIG. 1 is a front elevational view of a powered water jet according toone embodiment of the invention with the magneto and the lights on therotor and the magnets on the stationary housing. FIG. 2 is sideelevational view of the powered water jet shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 3 isa cross sectional view of the powered water jet shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.FIG. 4 is a simplified depiction of a representative electrical circuitfor a powered water jet showing a magneto connected by circuitry to twolight sources. FIG. 5 is a schematic block diagram of the powered waterjet shown in FIGS. 1-4.

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram for a first alternative embodiment of theinvention with the magnets on the rotor and the magneto and lights onthe stationary housing. FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram for a secondalternative embodiment of the invention with the magnets on the rotorand the magneto and lights on a central shaft. FIG. 8 is a schematicdiagram for a third alternative embodiment of the invention with themagnets on a central shaft and the magneto and lights on the rotor.FIGS. 9A and 9B are schematic views for a fourth alternate embodiment ofthe invention with dual coaxial rotors. FIGS. 10A and 10B are schematicviews for a fifth alternate embodiment of the invention with dualrotating wheel rotors.

Illustrative embodiments of a powered water jet 10 in accordance withthe present invention may be seen with reference to the severaldrawings, in which a first illustrative embodiment is shown in FIGS.1-3. This illustrative example of the powered water jet 10 of thepresent invention includes stationary housing 20, and at least one rotor40, also referred to as a rotary housing or a rotary jet, disposedwithin stationary housing 20 for axial rotation within stationaryhousing 20 when a pressurized fluid source, typically water, iscirculated through a pump and circulating system of the spa according toconventional, well known means. The term powered rotary jet is used todescribed the rotary jet of the present invention incorporating thepower generating features.

As will be familiar to those of skill in the art, an illustrativeembodiment of the invention is incorporated in a known rotary jet, inwhich stationary housing 20 has connector 21 at a first end ofstationary housing 20 for operative connection of powered water jet 10(which replaces the unpowered rotary jet in the known rotary jets) tothe circulating system of the spa, pool, or tub. The invention isreadily adaptable to other jet configurations, particularly those withmoving jet nozzles, such as jets that oscillate vertically, laterally orcombinations thereof. Connector 21 has a fluid passage 22 forcommunicating the pressurized water to one or more fluid jets 41 carriedby rotor 40. After connector 21, stationary housing 20 preferably willdefine bearing cup 23 to receive bearing 42 for rotationally supportingrotor 40 within stationary housing 20. Subsequent to bearing race 23,wall 25 of stationary housing 20 diverges outwardly from an axialcenterline C of rotor 40 to define chamber 26 within which rotor 40 mayspin. Annular guides 27 project inwardly of walls 25 proximal to asecond end of stationary housing 20 to stabilize rotor 40 within chamber26. Walls 25 then extend axially towards the second end of stationaryhousing 20 to define collar 30, which facilitates mounting of water jet10 within an opening (not shown) in a wall of the spa. The inner wallsof collar 30 also define power generation section 31 of powered waterjet 10, as disclosed in more detail below. Bezel 29 at the second end ofstationary housing 20 is provided to facilitate mounting of stationaryhousing 20 according to conventional means.

As is best seen in reference to FIG. 3, rotor 40 comprises at least onejet 41 in communication with fluid passage 22, oriented to impartrotational movement on rotor 40 as a result of the pressurized waterbeing carried through and ejected from the ends of jet 41. In theillustrative embodiment shown, two jets 41 are angled outwardly from thecenterline C and are also longitudinally offset from the axialcenterline so as to impart a greater rotational force. As mentionedpreviously, bearing 42 is located at a first end or axle 49 of rotor 40for rotationally supporting rotor 40 in stationary housing 20 about hub24. As best seen in reference to FIG. 1, the outlets of jets 41 passthrough outer face 43 at a second end of rotor 40.

In the illustrative embodiment of FIGS. 1-4, the power generationelements for powered water jet 10 include one or more permanent or fixedmagnets 32 embedded within the walls of stationary housing 20 around theperiphery of power generation section 30, as best seen in reference toFIGS. 1 and 3. Pairs of magnets 32 may be coupled with ferrous strap 34.One or more magnetos 44 are mounted subjacent to outer face 39 aroundthe periphery of rotor 40 such that they are radially opposed to themagnetic fields of magnets 32 during rotation of rotor 40 withinstationary housing 20. Outputs 45 of magneto 44 may be connected to oneor more electrically powered devices, such as light source 47, viaelectronic circuitry 46, such as a simple rectifier and/or resistorand/or resistor-capacitor (RC) circuit, as shown in FIG. 4. Theelectrically powered device may be a light source 47, which may forexample be a light emitting diode (LED) carried on outer face 39 ofrotor 40. Alternatively, as disclosed in more detail below, magnetos 44can be mounted within the walls of stationary housing 20 and magnets 32can be mounted on rotor 40, as well as other equivalent configurations.

As can been seen in FIG. 4, one magneto 44 can power two light sources47. Similarly, one magneto 44 can power one or three or more lightsources 47 with the number of light sources 47 per magneto 44 dependenton the electricity generating capacity of the magneto 44 and the powerrequirements of the lights sources 47. When comparing FIG. 1 to FIG. 4,it can be seen that this embodiment comprises three magnetos 44 and fourlight sources 47, with one magneto 44 powering two light sources 47 andtwo magnetos 44 powering one light source 47 each. Variousconfigurations of magnetos 44 and light sources 47 can be included on asingle powered water jet 10.

Those who are familiar with the practice of power generation utilizingmagnetic fields will understand the principles of the invention. In therespective drawing figures, the power source has been illustrated asmagneto 44 and fixed magnet 32. A typical magneto 44 is a coil of wirewrapped around a laminated, ferrous metal such as iron in such a way asto attract and direct the magnetic field of magnetic source 32. As thecoil passes through (“cutting”) the lines of the magnetic field, avoltage potential is produced in the coil of wire. When outputs 45 ofthe coil are connected to an electronic device, such as light source 47,a current is produced in the completed circuit. As will be appreciatedby those of skill in the art, a generator is a certain configuration ofthese coils (magnetos 44) constructed with a commutator and brushes,which will produce a direct current (DC) from the coils. An alternatoris defined as a certain configuration of these coils (magnetos 44) thatwill produce an alternating current (AC) from the coils. Accordingly,the generation of either AC or DC currents are contemplated within thescope of the present invention.

For the purpose of this disclosure, the powered water jet 10 comprises acircuit, which in turn comprises a power source (the magneto 44/magnet32 combination), a load (the light source 47 or other electrical orelectronic component such as for example a sound generating device or anelectrical storage device), and connecting wires and other requiredelectrical devices (the electronics 46 that may include wires,resistors, capacitors, etcetera). It is to be understood, however, thatthe actual circuit can be any suitable circuit with any suitable and/orrequired components.

While the illustrative embodiment of FIGS. 1-4 depict fixed magnet 32and magneto 44 in a certain spatial relationship, the fixed magneticsource may alternatively be one or more magnets 32 configured on outerface 39, axle 49, or rotor 40 in such a manner as to come in closeproximity to magneto 44, which would be positioned with an elementassociated with stationary housing 40. Magneto 44, electronics 46, andlight source 47 would then be configured on one of the other parts ofpowered water jet 10 to complete the power generating function andlighting system. Various alternative configurations and illustrativeembodiments have been schematically illustrated in FIGS. 5-10.

In FIG. 5, the illustrative embodiment of FIGS. 1-4 is shown, wheremagnets 32 (or other magnetic source) are carried on stationary housing20, and the magneto 44, electronics 46, and light source 47 are carriedon the rotor 40. In FIG. 6, magnets 32 (or other magnetic source) arecarried on the rotor 40, and magneto 44, electronics 46, and lightsource 47 are carried on stationary housing 20.

In FIG. 7, magnets 32 (or other magnetic source) are carried on rotaryhousing 20, and magneto 44, electronics 46, and light source 47 areplaced on or within shaft 48 that is fixed to stationary housing 20. InFIG. 8, magnet 32 (or other magnetic source) is carried on or withinshaft 48, and magneto 44, electronics 46, and light source 47 are placedon or within rotary housing 20. In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 7 and8, rotor 40 would then have bore 50 such that rotor 40 is received onshaft 48. It will be appreciated that by various configurations, poweredwater jets 10 may have elements that are carried by a rotor, the portionof the generating device that is in motion, and associated with rotor40, and elements that are carried by a stator, the portion of thegenerating device that is stationary, and associated with stationaryhousing 20 or stationary shaft 48.

FIGS. 9 and 10 illustrate alternate embodiments of the structure andconfiguration of jets 41 and rotors 40, with FIGS. 9A and 9B beingschematic views of the invention with dual coaxial rotors 40 and FIGS.10A and 10B being schematic views of the invention with dual rotatingwheel rotors 40. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, one purposeof the counter rotating jets 41 is to achieve an effective increasedspeed between the two rotors 40 where the induced power will beincreased for circuitry that requires it. Water W flows through each ofthe jet 41 or pairs of jets 41 on each of the rotors 40, with the jets41 preferably being structured to rotate the respective rotors indifferent directions. For example, as shown in FIG. 9A, jets 41 on theouter rotor 40 are structured to cause the rotation of the outer rotor40 in an anti-clockwise direction and jets 41 on the inner rotor 40 arestructured to cause the rotation of the inner rotor 40 in a clockwisedirection. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 9A, magnets 32 are located oninner rotor 40 and magnetos 44, electronics 46, and light sources 47 arelocated on outer rotor 40; however, magnets 32 also can be located onouter rotor 40 and magnetos 44, electronics 46, and light sources 47also can be located on inner rotor 40.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B, the rotating wheel rotors40A are contained in a rotor 40 that itself also can be free to spin.Water W flows through each of the rotating wheel rotors 40A, with thejets 41 preferably being structure to rotate the respective rotatingwheel rotors 40A in different directions. For example, as shown in FIG.10B, the rotating wheel rotor 40A visible is rotating in ananti-clockwise direction, while the rotating wheel rotor 40A not visible(behind the visible rotating wheel rotor 40A) is rotating in a clockwisedirection. However, both rotating wheel rotors 40A can be structured torotate in the same direction. If the rotating wheel rotors 40A arestructured to rotate in opposite directions, due to the force of thewater jets 41 this force also causes the rotor 40 to freely rotate onits own axis, which is perpendicular to the axes of the rotating wheelrotors 40A. There are further variations on this wheel jet principle.For example, the two rotating wheel rotors 40A can be placed closeenough to each other so that each rotating wheel rotor 40A could carryboth a magnet 32 and a magneto 44 with light sources 47 located on eachof the rotating wheel rotors 40A.

Magneto 44 may be one or more as used singularly, or one or more as aconfiguration of an alternator or generator, or one or more alternatorsor generators. Powered water jet 10 may also be configured as to have acombination of magnetos, and/or generators, and/or alternators. Theseconfigurations will be determined by the specific electrical component'spower requirements, such as, for example, whether the electricalcomponent is for lighting, sound, etc., and/or for controlling theassociated electronics via a remote controlled or wireless controlcircuit for the powered jet functions.

In an illustrative embodiment of a jet powered light, the pattern andvisual display of light sources 47 may be varied by the number andplacement of magnets 32 around power generation section 31. For example,in a configuration incorporating three magnets 32 located equally aboutstationary housing 20, and one magneto 44 and one light source 47 onrotor 40, for each rotation of rotor 40, light source 47 can blink threetimes. Similarly, in a configuration incorporating one magnet 32 locatedon stationary housing 20, and three magnetos 44 and three light sources47 on rotor 40, for each rotation of rotor 40, light source 47 also canblink three times. One of ordinary skill in the art can determine thenumber and placement of magnets 32, magnetos 44, and light sources 47 toachieve a desired lighting effect.

Using the illustrative embodiment of FIGS. 1-3, powered water jet 10also may be adapted so that it is user configurable, that is, the usermay be able to vary the lighting configuration, such as illuminationpatterns or colors, to suit their own tastes. For example, the walls ofpower generation section 31 may be provided with a plurality ofadditional receptacles 33 that are capable of receiving additionalmagnets 32. The user could insert magnets 32 at a desired point in therotational movement at which light source 47 will illuminate. This willallow the user to select any number of the points on the powered waterjet 10 to place magnets 32 to control the pattern of the lightingfeature. Complete removal of magnets 32 disables the power generationfor the light feature of powered water jet 10. Alternatively, additionalreceptacles connected to electronics 46 may be provided so that the usermay add additional magnetos 44 and light sources 47 to powered water jet10. Magnetos 44 can be of a modular construction and its outputs can beelectrically connected to electronics 46 by any suitable means, such aspin, spade or bullet connectors, sockets, and the like.

It also will be appreciated that magnetos 44, electronics 46, and lightsource 47 also may be contained in a single user adjustable and/orreplaceable module, such as shown in connection with FIG. 5 (withmagnets 32 attached to the stationary housing) and FIGS. 7 and 8 (withrotor 40 and shaft 48 comprising the required circuit components). Sucha module can be designed by those of ordinary skill in the art to be ofa structure and size to replace rotor 40, which can be removed fromstationary housing 20. A mechanical attachment that can utilize amechanical receptacle can be used to attach the module to the stationaryhousing 20 or to the rotor 40.

Magnets 32 (or other magnetic sources) that are mounted on powered waterjet 10 at specific locations can set a predetermined number of instancespower is applied to light source 47 (or another electrical component) ina given cycle of the motion. This also can define the permanentplacement of where the light source is illuminated in the cycle of themotion. For example, permanent light patterns of powered water jet 10also can be defined by the placement of light source 47 or multiplelight sources 47 at select locations on or about the powered water jet10.

The position of magnet 32 in relation to the point where magneto 44passes through the magnetic field determines the physical point at whichlight source 47 illuminates. Accordingly, the number of magnets 32,magnetos 44, and light sources 47 may be configured to determine thelight pattern, whether fixed or user adjustable, as determined by theplacement of magnets 32 and light sources 47. The ability to arrange theplacement of magnets 32, magnetos 44, or light sources 47 will allow theend user to define a desired pattern effect. For example, the placementof lights 47 can produce a “smiley-face” pattern on the face of poweredwater jet 10. The ability to remove all of magnets 32 will allow the enduser to disable the lighting feature while the therapeutic function ofthe water jet 41 remains completely operational.

The light pattern may also be controlled through electronics 46 by theaddition of capacitance (or some other similar electrical storagedevice) as an electrical storage device for storing power generated bymagnetos 44. The use of capacitance and resistance (an RC time constantcan be calculated) will result in a discharge of the stored power in thecapacitor when the power generation by magneto 44 is removed. Forexample, a discharge path of the capacitor can be through the resistance(resistor) and light source 47. The result is an extended illuminationthat may have a fading effect of light source 47 due to the decrease inpower supplied by the capacitor as it discharges. This decrease inillumination continues until the complete discharge has been achieved.Similarly, the use of a battery (or some other similar electricalstorage device) charged by the magneto can allow for battery suppliedelectrical operation when the mechanical use of the water jet is nolonger desired or is terminated.

Alternatively, a short RC time constant can result in the illuminationof light source 47 to be brief upon removal of the power supplied bymagneto 44. This can have a lighting effect similar to a comet with ashort tail. This comet's tail length is also controlled by the speed ofpowered water jet 10. A longer RC time constant results in the longerillumination of light source 47 upon removal of the power supplied bymagneto 44. This can have a lighting effect similar to a comet with along tail. The RC time constant also may be increased to the point wherethe discharge of the stored power will not complete prior to the nexttime the power is supplied by magneto 44. The supplied power by magneto44 recharges the C storage component of the RC network, the result ofwhich may appear as a constant light source. Variations of electronics46 may be configured on a user replaceable module so that the desiredlight pattern may be obtained by changing out the replaceable modulewith a module having an electronic circuit for a different lightpattern. As with the user selectable magnetos 44, electronics 46 can beconfigured in any suitable manner, such as with pin, spade, bulletconnectors and the like.

It will be appreciated that electronics 46 and other electricalcomponents of the present invention will be suitably sealed and isolatedso as to avoid a shock hazard and to avoid infiltration of water andconsequent corrosion or interference with the conductive pathways.

The speed of rotor 40 also will determine the lighting pattern andintensity. The volume of water forced into jet 41 controls this speed.The end user will most likely have the ability to control the volume ofwater passing through jet 41 using a variable flow valve, as such arecommon with rotary jets. Lighting intensity may also increase as thespeed at which the magnetic fields cut by magneto 44 is increased. Thenumber of times light source 47 illuminates at a given point in thelight pattern also increases as jet 41 speed increases. As dischargingtime of a capacitor storage component in a RC network is constant, anincrease in speed of the movement will increase the number of charginginstances during that time constant. Basically, the time betweencharging events decreases as the speed of the motion increases. Theincrease in power and the increase in the number of charging instanceswill affect the lighting as disclosed above, such as a comet with tailin one example to an appearance of a constant light source in anotherexample.

Thus, one illustrative embodiment of the invention is a powered waterjet 10 for a spa comprising a stationary housing 20, a rotor 40rotationally mounted in the stationary housing, and at least one jet 41for inducing rotational movement in the rotor 40, the improvementcomprising at least one magnet 32 attached to the stationary housing 20;at least one magneto 44 attached to the rotor 40 at a point that passesthrough a magnetic field of the magnet 32 during rotational movement ofthe rotor 40; and electronics 46 electrically attached to an output ofthe magneto 44.

Another illustrative embodiment of the invention is a powered water jet10 for a spa comprising a stationary housing 20, a rotor 40 rotationallymounted in the stationary housing, and at least one jet 41 for inducingrotational movement in the rotor 40, the improvement comprising at leastone magnet 32 attached to the rotor 40, at least one magneto 44 attachedto the stationary housing 20 at a point where a magnetic field of themagnet 32 passes during rotational movement of the rotor 40; andelectronics 46 attached to an output of the magneto 44.

Another illustrative embodiment of the invention is a powered water jet10 for a spa comprising a stationary housing 20, at least two rotors 40rotationally mounted in the stationary housing, and at least one jet 41for inducing rotational movement in at least one of the rotors 40, theimprovement comprising at least one magnet 32 attached to at least oneof the rotors 40; at least one magneto 44 attached to the stationaryhousing 20 at a point where a magnetic field of the magnet 32 passesduring rotational movement of the rotor(s) 40; and electronics 46attached to an output of the magneto 44. In this embodiment, the jet 41can be on one of the rotors 40 while another one of the rotors 40 can beanalogous to a turbine and located between the fluid passage 22 and thejet 41. Each or one of the rotors 40 can comprise magnet(s) 32cooperating with magneto(s) 44 on the stationary housing, or cancomprise magneto(s) 44 cooperating with magnet(s) 32 on the stationaryhousing.

Another illustrative embodiment of the invention is a powered water jet10 for a spa comprising a stationary housing 20, at least one rotor 40rotationally mounted in the stationary housing, and at least onenon-rotating jet 41, the improvement comprising at least one magnet 32attached to the rotor 40; at least one magneto 44 attached to thestationary housing 20 at a point where a magnetic field of the magnet 32passes during rotational movement of the rotor 40; and electronics 46attached to an output of the magneto 44. In this embodiment, the jet 41can be stationary or otherwise adjustable while another one of therotors 40 can be analogous to a turbine and located between the fluidpassage 22 and the jet 41. Each of the rotors 40 can comprise magnet(s)32 cooperating with magneto(s) 44 on the stationary housing, or cancomprise magneto(s) 44 cooperating with magnet(s) 32 on the stationaryhousing.

Another illustrative embodiment of the invention is a powered water jetfor a spa comprising a stationary housing; at least two rotating fluidjets rotationally mounted in the stationary housing; at least one magnetattached to a first of the rotating fluid jets and at least one magnetoattached to a second of the rotating fluid jets, the at least one magnetbeing located at a point where a magnetic field of the at least onemagnet cooperates with the at least one magneto during rotationalmovement of the rotating fluid jets; and electrical circuitry attachedto an output of the at least one magneto, wherein fluid flowing throughthe rotating fluid jets causes the rotating fluid jets to rotate inrotational directions opposite to each other and the rotational movementof the at least one magnet relative to the at least one magneto produceselectrical energy.

Another illustrative embodiment of the invention is a powered water jetfor a spa comprising a stationary housing; at least one rotor mounted inthe stationary housing; at least two fluid jets rotationally mounted inthe rotor; at least one magnet attached to at least one of the at leasttwo fluid jets or to the at least one rotor and at least one magnetoattached to the at least one rotor or to at least one of the at leasttwo fluid jets, respectively, the at least one magnet being located at apoint where a magnetic field of the at least one magnet cooperates withthe at least one magneto during rotational movement of the at least twofluid jets; and electrical circuitry attached to an output of the atleast one magneto, wherein the rotational movement of the at least onemagnet relative to the at least one magneto produces electrical energy.This embodiment can further comprise at least one magnet attached to thestationary housing or to the rotor and at least one magneto attached tothe rotor or to the stationary housing, respectively, the at least onemagnet being located at a point where a magnetic field of the at leastone magnet cooperates with the at least one magneto during rotationalmovement of the rotor.

Each of these illustrative embodiments, as well as other embodiments,can further comprise at least one user selectable receptacle forreceiving at least one additional magnet 32 according to a userpreference. Alternatively or additionally, each of these illustrativeembodiments, as well as other embodiments, can further comprise a userreplaceable module that comprises the magneto 44, light source 47 (orother electric or electronic component), and electronics 46. In each ofthe preferred embodiments, light sources 47 (or other electrical orelectronic devices) preferably are located on the rotor 40 comprisingthe jet(s) 41 or on the stationary housing 20.

Additional circuitry for voltage regulation or detection (such as azener diode) can be implemented into the electronics 46 and can be usedto determine the level of voltage at which light source 47 will begin toilluminate. Note that as the speed of magneto 44 passing through themagnetic field increases, the power generated also increases. Therefore,this configuration would allow for light source 47 to be “turned off” atlow rates of powered water jet 10 motion and enabled at higher rates ofmotion. As the control of the volume of water forced into powered waterjet 10 is variable and often can be varied by the user, this functionalso controls the point at which the light source 47 feature is enable.

As can be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art, lightsource 47 can be replaced with a sound source, capacitor or battery (orother electrical energy storing device), charging circuitry, or anotherelectrical or electronic device or circuitry, or combinations of suchsources and/or devices. The above description is applicable to suchother sources, devices, and combinations. Similarly, if an electricalenergy storage device is incorporated into the invention, the magnetocan be used to charge the electrical storage device for purpose ofoperating the electronics when rotor 40 is not turning.

Powered water jet 10 is readily adaptable as an after market addition toan existing spa, pool or tub, due to the fact that the end usergenerally has the ability to remove previously installed jets formaintenance purposes. The end user can remove the original jet withoutthe power generating feature and replace it with a powered water jet 10that has, for example, light source 47, or a sound source, or acombination light and sound source. The user can purchase severalpowered water jets 10 of different color light schemes (or sound schemesor combinations), or several user replaceable modules of different colorlight schemes (or sound schemes or combinations), so that futureselections of a desired lighting color (or sound or combinations) may beinstalled, and the different water powered jets 10 or user replaceablemodules can be substituted as desired. This could be for setting acertain lighting (or sound) mood, matching the lighting with decorchanges, or selecting your favorite sports team's colors while watchingthe game or match on the television. This also applies to the poweredwater jets 10 having removable, arrangeable and replaceable electronicsmodules as previously disclosed.

The foregoing detailed description of the preferred embodiments and theappended figures have been presented only for illustrative anddescriptive purposes and are not intended to be exhaustive or to limitthe scope and spirit of the invention. The embodiments were selected anddescribed to best explain the principles of the invention and itspractical applications. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognizethat many variations can be made to the invention disclosed in thisspecification without departing from the scope and spirit of theinvention according to the appended claims.

1. In a water jet for a spa comprising a stationary housing and at leastone rotating fluid jet rotationally mounted in the stationary housing,the improvement comprising: a) at least one magnet attached to thestationary housing; b) at least one magneto attached to the rotatingfluid jet at a point that passes through a magnetic field of the magnetduring rotational movement of the rotating fluid jet; and c) electricalcircuitry electrically attached to an output of the magneto.
 2. Thewater jet of claim 1, wherein the electrical circuitry comprises a lightsource.
 3. The water jet of claim 1, wherein the stationary housingcomprises at least one user selectable receptacle for receiving at leastone additional magnet according to a user preference.
 4. The water jetof claim 1, wherein the rotating fluid jet further comprises at leastone user selectable receptacle, coupled to the electrical circuitry, forreceiving at least one additional magneto according to a userpreference.
 5. The water jet of claim 1, wherein the electricalcircuitry is contained on a user replaceable module.
 6. The water jet ofclaim 2, wherein the electrical circuitry is contained on a userreplaceable module and the electrical circuitry defines a specifiedillumination pattern for the light source.
 7. The water jet of claim 1,wherein the stationary housing further comprises a shaft and therotating fluid jet is mounted for coaxial rotation about the shaft. 8.The water jet of claim 7, wherein the at least one magnet is containedwithin the shaft and the electrical circuitry is contained in the rotor.9. In a water jet for a spa comprising a stationary housing and at leastone rotating fluid jet rotationally mounted in the stationary housing,the improvement comprising: a) at least one magnet attached to therotating fluid jet; b) at least one magneto attached to the stationaryhousing at a point where a magnetic field of the magnet passes duringrotational movement of the rotating fluid jet; and c) electricalcircuitry attached to an output of the magneto.
 10. The water jet ofclaim 9, wherein the electrical circuitry comprises a light source. 11.The water jet of claim 9, wherein the rotating fluid jet comprises atleast one user selectable receptacle for receiving at least oneadditional magnet according to a user preference.
 12. The water jet ofclaim 9, wherein the stationary housing further comprises at least oneuser selectable receptacle, coupled to the electrical circuitry, forreceiving at least one additional magneto according to a userpreference.
 13. The water jet of claim 9, wherein the electricalcircuitry is contained on a user replaceable module.
 14. The water jetof claim 10, wherein the electrical circuitry is contained on a userreplaceable module and the electrical circuitry defines a specifiedillumination pattern for the light source.
 15. The water jet of claim 9,wherein the stationary housing further comprises a shaft and therotating fluid jet is mounted for coaxial rotation about the shaft. 16.The improved water jet of claim 15, wherein the at least one magneto andthe electrical circuitry are contained within the shaft.
 17. A water jetfor a spa comprising: a) a stationary housing; b) a rotating fluid jetrotationally mounted in the stationary housing; c) at least one magnetattached to the stationary housing or to the rotating fluid jet and atleast one magneto attached to the rotating fluid jet or to thestationary housing, respectively, the at least one magnet being locatedat a point where a magnetic field of the at least one magnet cooperateswith the at least one magneto during rotational movement of the rotatingfluid jet; and d) electrical circuitry attached to an output of the atleast one magneto, wherein the rotational movement of the at least onemagnet relative to the at least one magneto produces electrical energy.18. The water jet of claim 17, further comprising electrical circuitrypowered by the electrical energy.
 19. The water jet of claim 18, whereinthe electrical circuitry comprises a light source.
 20. The water jet ofclaim 18, wherein the stationary housing further comprises at least oneconnector having an electrical connection for allowing transmission ofthe electrical energy to a user replaceable module containing theelectrical circuitry.
 21. The water jet of claim 18, wherein therotating fluid jet further comprises at least one connector having anelectrical connection for allowing transmission of the electrical energyto a user replaceable module containing the electrical circuitry.
 22. Awater jet for a spa comprising: a) a stationary housing; b) a fluid jet;c) at least one rotor rotationally mounted in the stationary housing; d)at least one magnet attached to the stationary housing or to the atleast one rotor and at least one magneto attached to the at least onerotor or to the stationary housing, respectively, the at least onemagnet being located at a point where a magnetic field of the at leastone magnet cooperates with the at least one magneto during rotationalmovement of the rotor; and e) electrical circuitry attached to an outputof the at least one magneto, wherein the rotational movement of the atleast one magnet relative to the at least one magneto produceselectrical energy.
 23. The water jet of claim 22, further comprisingelectrical circuitry powered by the electrical energy.
 24. The water jetof claim 23, wherein the electrical circuitry comprises a light source.25. The water jet of claim 23, wherein the stationary housing furthercomprises at least one connector having an electrical connection forallowing transmission of the electrical energy to a user replaceablemodule containing the electrical circuitry.
 26. The water jet of claim23, wherein the rotor further comprises at least one connector having anelectrical connection for allowing transmission of the electrical energyto a user replaceable module containing the electrical circuitry.
 27. Awater jet for a spa comprising: a) a stationary housing; b) at least tworotating fluid jets rotationally mounted in the stationary housing; c)at least one magnet attached to a first of the rotating fluid jets andat least one magneto attached to a second of the rotating fluid jets,the at least one magnet being located at a point where a magnetic fieldof the at least one magnet cooperates with the at least one magnetoduring rotational movement of the rotating fluid jets; and d) electricalcircuitry attached to an output of the at least one magneto, whereinfluid flowing through the rotating fluid jets causes the rotating fluidjets to rotate in rotational directions opposite to each other and therotational movement of the at least one magnet relative to the at leastone magneto produces electrical energy.
 28. The water jet of claim 27,further comprising electrical circuitry powered by the electricalenergy.
 29. The water jet of claim 28, wherein the electrical circuitrycomprises a light source.
 30. A water jet for a spa comprising: a) astationary housing; b) at least one rotor mounted in the stationaryhousing; c) at least two fluid jets rotationally mounted in the rotor;d) at least one magnet attached to at least one of the at least twofluid jets or to the at least one rotor and at least one magnetoattached to the at least one rotor or to at least one of the at leasttwo fluid jets, respectively, the at least one magnet being located at apoint where a magnetic field of the at least one magnet cooperates withthe at least one magneto during rotational movement of the at least twofluid jets; and e) electrical circuitry attached to an output of the atleast one magneto, wherein the rotational movement of the at least onemagnet relative to the at least one magneto produces electrical energy.31. The water jet of claim 30, further comprising electrical circuitrypowered by the electrical energy.
 32. The water jet of claim 31, whereinthe electrical circuitry comprises a light source.
 33. The water jet ofclaim 30, wherein the at least one rotor is mounted rotationally in thestationary housing.
 34. The water jet of claim 33, further comprising atleast one magnet attached to the stationary housing or to the rotor andat least one magneto attached to the rotor or to the stationary housing,respectively, the at least one magnet being located at a point where amagnetic field of the at least one magnet cooperates with the at leastone magneto during rotational movement of the rotor.
 35. The water jetof claim 30, wherein the at least one rotor further comprises at leastone connector having an electrical connection for allowing transmissionof the electrical energy to a user replaceable module containing theelectrical circuitry.